Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Ask Chaviva Anything!: Seminary?

This question (from Ask Chaviva Anything!) just came in, and I thought, well, why not answer it right now before I haul myself through the "go-to-bed" routine.
Have you ever thought about studying in seminary? What is your perception of converts who decides [sic] to do that? 
The answer: Of course! Who hasn't dreamed of sitting around learning all day, especially this girl, right? I have an MA in Judaic Studies, but I know the kind of learning that goes on in a seminary is more on the religious end of things, but I think my extensive learning and study of rabbinic literature, the Tanakh, and historic texts, would give me a unique upper-hand in the seminary environment.

A very awesome and well-known rabbi is trying to talk me into going in the fall (this has been a consideration in process since November, mind you), and who knows. My life is an open book at this point, and after spending five weeks in Israel this summer I might just be sold on it.

As for my perception of converts who study in seminary or opt for yeshiva learning, I think it's great. It's just one more way to let a neshama grow in its natural habitat.

What about you questioner and others -- what do you think about seminary education? Yay? Nay?